
by Robin McKinley
How can we know the difference between right and wrong? When considering everyone’s opinions, it’s hard to find a distinct line. The Apostle Paul, though, helped us in this area. By using God’s Word, we can easily know when we are doing the right things.
All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 2 Timothy 3:16
Without guidance, we all are like sheep and can be led astray. One person may think something is right, while another may have the conviction that it’s totally wrong. That’s what happens when we throw the human equation into the mix.
So, what exactly is right and wrong? The Word of God gives us the guidance we need. The first thing we must do is believe that all scripture is inspired by God. We can’t pick and choose what we like and don’t like in the Bible.
Then, we must accept the fact that it’s a valuable teaching tool. It teaches us what is true and points out the wrong in our lives. Many things in the Bible are black and white. Which means they are direct and to the point.
When we choose to do wrong, the Holy Spirit will use the Word to turn us around. He takes us in a two-step process.
- He uses it to correct us when we are wrong.
- Then, He uses the Word to teach us to do what is right.
What If the Bible Doesn’t Cover It?
I understand issues not specifically mentioned in the Bible come up in our circumstances. The Word deals with many of those through its principles and the lives of those written about in it.
You may ask about the grey areas in life that seem to fall between the text on the pages. The same Holy Spirit that inspired the scriptures will also deal with our hearts. He will prick our consciences when we are wrong.
After we repent of our sin (that’s the wrongdoing), God’s Spirit will give us peace of mind. It doesn’t stop there, though. Paul wrote this to Timothy.
And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing. 2 Timothy 4:8
The apostle said he was looking forward to receiving the crown of righteousness. Why? Because he did everything right? He would be the first one to tell you he didn’t. What did he do?
He allowed the Word of God to correct and guide him to do what pleased the Lord. And he eagerly looked forward to the Lord’s appearing. What about you? Are you doing the same thing with your life?
Lord, thank you for guiding us when we do wrong and leading us to do what’s right. We do believe that your Word is inspired. We give the Holy Spirit permission to lead us into all righteousness.
About the Author:
Robin, with his wife Cindy, became children’s evangelists early in their ministry. They ministered to children full time for 8 years. During that time they developed several children’s stories which were told with visuals and puppets.
Robin recently turned two of those stories into children’s books. One is called “The Contest,” a book about the Fruit of the Spirit, and the other is called “Twas the Night of Christmas”. He has also authored 5 volumes of devotional books called, 3 Minutes Alone with God. Each entry is a product of his personal biblical Journaling.
These and his other writings are available on his website called Christian Perspectives at www.ramckinley.com. When you visit this site, you can sign-up for newly written devotions as they come out which will be emailed to you.
Presently Robin is the pastor of Calvary Christian Center in Pottstown, PA. He is an ordained minister with the Assemblies of God. He and his wife make their home in Birdsboro, Pa. He also serves as the president of the local ministerium. He and Cindy have two married sons and four grandchildren.